[X.] The Nereids were sea-nymphs, the daughters of Nereus. The island mentioned is Delos, and the story referred to is that Jupiter hid Latona, the mother of Apollo and Diana, on the floating island of Delos, in order to shelter her from the jealousy of Juno. By means of chains Apollo fixed Delos between the two small neighbouring islands Myconos and Gyarus.
[XII.] 'Thymbrean lord.' Apollo, so called from the town of Thymbra in the Troad, where he was worshipped.
[XVI.] Crete is called 'Gnosian' from 'Gnossos,' the chief town of the island.
[XVII.] Ortygia was the ancient name of Delos.
[XXIII.] The 'Ausonian shores' means Italy. For the Ausonians, see [Book VII. stanza vi.]